The heartbreaking disappearance of New Canaan mother of five Jennifer Dulos is yet another reminder domestic violence represents the most frequent calls to our local law enforcement departments.

Domestic violence doesn’t discriminate by financial privilege nor level of education, and is far more complex than to be simplified as a gender-specific phenomenon.

Domestic disturbances are a community failure within our households, as well as those of extended families, neighbors, classmates, work colleagues and fellow citizens. The greatest tool we have in combatting this crisis is investing in preventive education extending beyond school classrooms, and reinforced in workplaces, faith-based venues, social organizations and municipal causal gatherings.

The Domestic Violence Crisis Center (DVCC) is committed to sharing its trained expertise inculcating how we can break the cycle of physical violence, verbal and emotional abuse, economic deprivation and the control of technological advances in monitoring intimate partner relations. Statistically, one in four women and one in seven men experience domestic violence in the United States.

Domestic violence is the No. 1 cause of visits to hospital emergency rooms for women between the ages of 18-44; and one in seven children raised in violent households will become a victim or perpetrator later in life.

DVCC’s mission is providing effective services, support and education for the prevention and elimination of domestic violence in Connecticut and beyond. Our service footprint of seven communities in lower Fairfield County provides victim advocacy for more than 330,000 residents. All services are confidential and at no cost.

For more information, please visit www.dvccct.org or call the bilingual helpline, 203-588-9096.

Thank you for helping break the cycle of domestic violence — lives depend on us!